Health Encyclopedia - Test

Muscle biopsy

A muscle biopsy is the removal of a small piece of muscle tissue for examination.

Alternative Names:

Biopsy - muscle

How the Test is Performed:

This procedure is usually done while you are awake. The health care provider will apply a numbing medicine (local anesthesia) to the biopsy area.

There are two types of muscle biopsy:

A needle biopsy involves inserting a needle into the muscle. When the needle is removed, a small piece of tissue remains in the needle. More than one needle stick may be needed to get a large enough sample.

An open biopsy involves making a small cut in the skin and into the muscle. The muscle tissue is then removed.

After either type of biopsy, the tissue is sent to a laboratory for examination.

How to Prepare for the Test:

No special preparation is usually needed. If you will have anesthesia, follow instructions on not eating or drinking anything before the test.

How the Test will Feel:

During the biopsy, there is usually little or no discomfort. You may feel some pressure or tugging.

The anesthetic may burn or sting when injected (before the area becomes numb). After the anesthetic wears off, the area may be sore for about a week.